Willie Shaw facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born: | January 11, 1944 Glenmora, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Career information | |
| High school: | San Diego (CA) Lincoln |
| College: | New Mexico (1966–1968) |
| Career history | |
| As coach: | |
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| Coaching stats at PFR | |
Willie Lorenzo Shaw, born on January 11, 1944, is a well-known former American football player and coach. He worked with many teams in both the NFL (National Football League) and college football. He is also the father of David Shaw, who used to be the head coach for Stanford.
Contents
Willie Shaw's Early Life and Playing Days
Growing Up and Serving His Country
Willie Shaw was born in Glenmora, Louisiana. After finishing high school at Lincoln High School in San Diego, he joined the United States Air Force. He served in the Vietnam War and became a Sergeant. After his time in the Air Force, Shaw worked with jets at an electronics company.
College Football Career
Later, Willie Shaw decided to go to the University of New Mexico. From 1966 to 1968, he played football for the New Mexico Lobos. He was a talented cornerback and was even named an All-Western Athletic Conference player. He also received an honorable mention for All-America, which means he was recognized as one of the best players in the country.
After playing football, Shaw moved to San Diego State University. He didn't play football there but focused on his studies. He earned his first degree in physical education in 1971. A few years later, in 1973, he earned a master's degree in the same subject.
Willie Shaw's Coaching Journey
Starting His Coaching Career
After his playing days were over, Willie Shaw began a long and successful career as an assistant coach. He coached for many different college and NFL teams. His main focus was coaching defenses, either as a secondary coach (who works with defensive backs) or as a defensive coordinator (who plans the entire defense).
Coaching in College and the NFL
Willie Shaw coached for a total of 14 different teams. In the NFL, he spent the longest time with the Minnesota Vikings (during two separate periods) and the Detroit Lions. In college football, his longest coaching jobs were at Stanford (also during two separate periods) and at Arizona State.
During his second time coaching at Stanford, he was considered for the head coach position in 1992. However, the job eventually went to Bill Walsh, who was a very famous coach.
Willie Shaw's Family Life
Willie Shaw has a family with strong ties to football. He is the father of David Shaw, who became a successful head coach for Stanford. Willie also has a brother named Nate Shaw, who played as a safety for the USC team in the 1960s.
